Chapter 3

Wade woke with a splitting headache, putting him in a foul mood, the loss of a Pack member weighing heavily with him. He was the Alpha, and Henry Jensen had been his to protect. It didn’t matter that Henry was a grown man, a Were, or that he knew how to look after himself. It wasn’t just his loss that hurt Wade; it was his failure.

It was Wade’s responsibility to ensure the safety of all his people and in this he’d failed Henry; he’d failed to protect him. After today, he wouldn’t stop until someone paid for Henry’s death.

The Pack was preparing to say their goodbyes. Wade had personally organised to have Henry cremated as was their custom, they couldn’t risk anyone other than their own kind getting hold of a body — until now. He ran a hand over his unshaven jaw, thinking on this as he made his way to the bathroom.

For some idiotic reason he couldn’t seem to get Dr Kincaid out of his mind. He had more important things to worry about. “Son-of-a-bitch!” he muttered after nicking himself for the third time. He persisted, needing to look the part of a strong Alpha when the Pack came together to pay their respects.

Today was important to the Pack; they needed to say goodbye, needed his strength to lean on. So even though all he wanted was to be out there, hunting for the bastard, that had taken the life of a man who was as gentle and well liked as he was fiercely protective of those he loved, he’d be there. He’d take one day before he began to hunt.

He had faith in the local Police, but they had no idea what they were up against and he didn’t want the body count to increase. If it did, someone was likely to start looking a great deal closer at the corpses and discover it wasn’t a rabid dog that caused the damage.

Wade didn’t worry about breakfast, there’d be a stream of food throughout the day, brought by those who had the time to prepare something and also by the main kitchen that took care of those that lived within the Compound he called home.

He grabbed a mug of coffee on his way to the front porch of his home, that is to say, the Alpha house. It was a huge two story sandstone house with a wide porch that completely surrounded it. It sat at the far end of the Compound, with buildings several hundred yards away on either side. Directly in front of the house was an open area covered in grass, wooden benches set at intervals so people could sit and chat or relax and enjoy a bit of quiet. It was there than many of his people would gather, to catch up and exchange stories of their memories of Henry.

The building to the left was designated accommodation for single men and older juveniles coming to the end of their training. There was another smaller building behind this with a gymnasium for the men and juveniles to utilise in their down time. To his right were two buildings sitting alongside of each other. The lower floor of one was for female housing, with the upper floor containing several suites designated for guests.

The other building containing a cafeteria type kitchen and lounging area. The school, library and computer room, was situated on the first floor with several offices and the security area on the second. The school was small, but run only for the younger children. They didn’t enrol in the local human schools until they were old enough to control themselves and their beasts.

This wasn’t a big Pack, but they were growing in numbers and each child born was loved and protected. The Compound was situated on a large piece of land, a great deal of which was bushland. It was here that many families make their homes, blending them into the landscape to further offer the privacy, they both wanted and needed to keep their young safe from outsiders.

Wade finished his coffee and headed back inside to his office. He had a few things he needed to take care of before giving himself over to the Pack for the day.

He made a call to the James, one of the Pack lawyers to discussing several properties he was interested in. What he was after was an old warehouse and James, through is real estate connections had found two likely properties, both of which Wade would view to see if either would suit their needs.

Wade was smart enough to know that if his Pack were to survive financially, they needed to make sure they had money coming in and jobs for those who needed them. At the moment he had several men whose trade had been in working with wood. They were sawyers and carpenters by trade.  He’d been discussing how best to utilise their skills, for their benefit as well as the benefit of the Pack. An idea was slowly coming together, but he wanted to make sure he had a place they could base themselves before he laid out his idea.

He looked up to see Mitch leaning against the doorway. Frowning at the man, he leaned back into his chair and waited. They’d known each other a good many years, both Mitch and Trae coming with him when he’d first set out to form his own Pack. They were his strongest Enforcers, his trusted friends, friends he trusted to watch over the woman who had been haunting his thoughts.

Mitch took a seat in front of Wade’s desk, “Dr T. had an uneventful evening. Trae took her to dinner at The Den, I joined them for dessert and,” he laughed, “Stephan made a big fuss over her believing she was Trae’s lady and telling her she should come back anytime she was in need of good food.” He shook his head a grin on his face, a grin that widened at the expression on his Alpha’s face.

“The Doctor’s a beautiful woman Wade. It’s such a shame her entire focus is on her work. She’s stubborn, but aware of the danger she could be if our Rogue discovers she’s involved. I mean look at her... a man would be crazy not to want her.”

Wade took several deep breathes doing his best to remain calm. “Trae?”

“Is sitting it the café keeping watch,” Mitch laughed. “He wanted to remain with her, even gave her his ‘I’m in charge’ look,” he laughed again, “she poked him in the chest and told him she was fine with him being her shadow, so long as he kept his distance. Then she reminded him that she was very good with a scalpel and that it would be shame to mess up someone so pretty.”

Wade wasn’t sure if he should be impressed or not. “So long as she follows orders when she needs to she can,” and he stifled a laugh, “poke him in the chest as much as she deems necessary. Come on,” he got to his feet, “our people are going to need to lean on us today.”

Throughout the day people gathered within the Compound to pay their respects and say goodbye to their fallen Pack-mate. Wade spent time with each and every person that approached him, giving comfort where it was needed. Food was set out in the kitchens dining area and people wandered in and out. The kitchen would be open all day, people stepping in to help out at intervals so no one would remain there all day.

Wade ate little, focused more of the needs of his people. That so many had come spoke volumes as to the man Henry Jenson had been. Henry’s ashes would be taken to a cliff edge further into their territory where Wade, as the Alpha would scatter them, letting the wind take them where they would. This last part was something he’d do alone, an Alpha’s way for commemorating his Pack-mate.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

As Tempest sat in her office sipping a cup of tea, her thoughts ran over the events of the day. It had a quiet day, for which she was thankful; a smile crept onto her face as she remembered going toe-to-toe with Trae. The surprised expression on his face when she poked him in the chest and gave him ‘what for’ was memorable. She’d agreed to let Wade’s men shadow her, but drew the line at having them physically with her as she went about her day.

Tempest didn’t think Wade would approve of her behaviour, but then he wasn’t her Alpha and had no right to force her to do anything. Placing her cup on the desk she massaged her temples, a habit she had when feeling tense, tired or overwhelmed with what she had to deal with. Truly though, she hadn’t felt this tense since before she’d left her home to begin her studies in Sydney.

Trae had told her during lunch, a lunch he made sure she took time to have, that there would be a gathering at the Compound just outside the city for people to say goodbye to Henry Jensen. It wasn’t a funeral, but a means for those who knew him to get together, tell stories and remember Henry.

Trae would want to be there, as would Mitch and since both men were shadowing her, it also meant she’d need to be there as well. Tempest had seen the sadness in their eyes that first day in her office. They’d hidden it well, but she’d become very good at reading people. They’d never ask, but Henry Jensen was Pack and she wasn’t about to take away their right to say their final farewell to him.

At four thirty Tempest prepared to leave, there was no need to inform Trae, he’d see her as she came to the entrance of the building. As she got out of the elevator Rob approached, “Dr T. there’s a delivery for you. I called down, but you’d already left. I’ve got everything stacked ready to put into your car. Did you want me to bring it around for you?”

“That won’t be necessary,” Trae said from behind him holding out his hand for her car keys. Rob moved closer to Tempest trying to block her from Trae, but she handed over the keys without any fuss. “Stay put Dr T. I’ll be right back.”

“It’s okay Rob, I’m visiting with an acquaintance tonight and Trae offered to help.” She smiled, hoping to put him at ease. “How about you help us get the boxes into the car?” he gave her a nod and picked up two of the boxes.

There were six good sized boxes in all, containing cakes, pastries and easy to travel finger food that wouldn’t need heating up. Tempest would have cooked herself, but with so little time on her hands, cooking was something she rarely got to do. She would not however, show up without something add to the table and hoped what’s she’d ordered would not be seen as an insult, as she was certain everything else would be home made.

When they finally had the boxes sitting carefully in the back seat, Tempest moved towards the passenger side of the car. Trae gave her a curious look, but got into the driver’s side and waited for her to tell him what she was up too.

“As you said earlier today, your people will have been gathering throughout the day to farewell your Pack-mate.” He nodded, “You and Mitch should be there. I’d also like to pay my respects. I didn’t know Mr Jensen in life, so hearing about him will help ease the memories I do have of him.”

Trae was dump-struck as what the woman said. The Doctor was human, knew about their kind and was a friend of one of the most powerful Alpha’s in the country. He wasn’t so much surprised that she knew something of their traditions, but that she would want to participate so he and Mitch could attend? This in itself made him see her with a great deal more respect.

The Compound was outside the city, close to the Blue Mountains where there was plenty of open space, bushlands and mountains. It was a beautiful area, but, dangerous to those who didn’t know there way around. Several Pack members were employed as Park Rangers and pulled in to search and rescue when hikers got lost in the surrounding area.

They were nearing the Compound when Trae finally spoke, “It’s likely to be a late night. The gathering – people will be reminiscing a good part of the night, are you sure you’re up for it? It might also be easier if you stayed the night with us.”

“I have a habit of working late, so keep a bag packed in case I need a change of clothing. So long as I have a place to put down my head for a few hours, I’m good.”

Trae was liking Dr T. more and more. “We have guest suits. I’ll make sure one’s ready for you when we arrive. We can get an early start in the morning, if that suits you?” He continued the drive with an even greater respect for Tempest.

When they arrived Trae called out to a couple of the men standing nearby to help with the food. He told them to take it to the kitchen so it could be place out with everything else, then led Tempest towards a group of people in the open area in front of the buildings.

She spotted Mitch approaching, a confused look on his face. Before he could ask what she was doing there, she reached out, giving his arm a squeeze, “Mr Jensen is your Pack-mate, you and Trae needed to be here to say your goodbyes.”

As with Trae, Mitch was someone speechless, she smiled and let go his arm. It was then she saw Wade in the distance, talking to his people, giving comfort and touch where it was needed. She couldn’t help but smile at the man, the way he interacted with those around him and the way they responded to him.

Tempest turned to both men, “How about you show me where the kitchen is? I’ll be able to help out and you two won’t feel the need to babysit me.” She smiled softly, “Besides I don’t want to intrude. You need to pay your respects, say your goodbyes.”

“There’s no need for you to…”

Mitch was cut off, “There is every need. Mr Jensen was your friend and Pack-mate, please let me do this for you?”

Mitch inclined his head slightly before leading the way to the kitchen. Trae stayed at her side, she was under Wade’s protection and he would stay with her until she was comfortably settled in with Murray, the resident Cook.

Tempest noticed the curious looks she was receiving from those they passed, but kept her focus on following Mitch. She was surprise at the size of the kitchen and dining area, taking everything in at a glance.

Mitch approached a large man carrying a tray of dishes on his way back to the kitchen. The man handed off the tray, waiting for Mitch to speak. “Murray, I’d like to you meet Doctor Tempest Kincaid. She’s offered to help out with the food while she’s here.”

“A doctor?” he couldn’t quite catch her scent, caught only the merest hint of cloves then assuming her to be human held out his hand in welcome. They shook and Murray made a show of pointing out the finer points of his domain. That is to say, he explained he was in charge and if she’d follow his lead, he’d more than welcome her help.

It had been some time since Tempest had been in the company of so many Were’s and although somewhat nervous, it didn’t take long for her to relax into what she was doing. If she were honest with herself, she’d realise how much she’d missed the interaction with Pack.

Trae hadn’t liked the idea of leaving her, but she shooed them outside to the laughter of Murray and his kitchen hands. They would never live this down, being shooed outside by a woman… a human woman at that, but they went and did the rounds of those gathered, talking of times past so their Pack-mate wouldn’t be forgotten.

An hour later, Wade spotted them both and stormed over with a growl. “What the hell! Who’s watching the Doctor?”

“Murray!” they both stated.

“What! Murray? Wait – she’s here? What the hell is she doing with Murray?”

It was Trae who answered, “She wanted to help out, said she wanted to get a sense of Henry by being here because all she knew of him was in death.”

Wade was not happy; Trae held out his hand to stop him from speaking, “The Doc said we needed to be here. She knew we’d stay with her and she wanted us to be able to pay our respects. I’d say Dr T. is very much in tune with who and what we are.”

Wade calmed down visibly, “Yes, it would seem so. Has she eaten?”

They both shrugged, assuming she would have. Wade ran a hand over his face, “The woman is a workaholic. I’ll go make sure she eats.” He moved off towards the kitchen leaving Mitch and Trae to do as Tempest had wanted – spend time with Pack and talk of old times with Henry.

Tempest wasn’t too surprised to see Wade glaring at her as she stacked used dishes and cups onto a tray. She didn’t protest when someone took the tray from her, knowing full well Wade would have signalled for him to do so.

Wade shook his head, “You know when I asked you out for a meal, this isn’t exactly what I had in mind.” He smiled when she laughed at his words. “I haven’t eaten and I’m betting you haven’t either. Come sit with me, Murray will organise a plate of something for us.” He touched a hand to her arm and she let him lead her to an empty table.

They’d barely taken their seats when Murray appeared carrying two plates of spaghetti bolognaise. “I hope you like freshly grated cheese Doc?”

Tempest smiled up at Murray, “This looks wonderful Murray, thank you.”

“No thanks needed Doc, you were a great help. And,” he lowered his voice, “the fact you took time to talk with those who needed a kind word, helped some feel less sad for a while.” As he walked back towards the kitchen he called out, “Let me know if you need anything else.”

“It seems you’ve made an impression with Murray.”

Tempest smiled to herself, “It was nice to be doing something useful and he’s easy to work with.”

Wade almost choked on his food. “You must have made one hell of an impression, because on any given day Murray can pi…” he cleared his throat. “Murray has a habit of upsetting people around him.”

Tempest continued eating for a few minutes before changing the subject, “Mr Jensen was well liked. I’m sorry I didn’t get to know him.”

“Yes, he was one hell of a good man, always had time to help out anyone who needed him. I appreciate you wanting to be here. Trae and Mitch…”

“They were friends and even if they weren’t, they were Pack-mates. Besides, now they might not push too hard when I tell them to back off a little.” Tempest saw the frown on his face, “Don’t worry Mr Benning, I know when to listen and do what I’m told, but I’m not about to have either one glued to my side. I still need to function and I can’t do that if I walk into them at every turn.”

“Fair enough,” Wade finished off the rest of his food. “Have you learnt anything else about the case?”

“Thankfully I haven’t had any more women brought in and there aren’t any reports of missing women.” She sighed, “I keep hoping the Rogue has moved on, but’s just wishing the problem onto someone else. What he did to the women was brutal. He wasn’t just trying to make a mate, he enjoyed hurting them.” Tempest put down her cutlery, realising she was now unable to eat anymore.

Wade noticed, but didn’t say anything. “Will you be staying the night?”

She nodded, “Yes, Trae said he’d organise a room for me. I always carry a travel bag in the car, so I’m fine to stay. I must say, this is an interesting Compound, smaller, more close than the one up north.”

“You’ve been to Braedon’s Compound?” he asked.

“Yes.” Tempest realised she’d probably said more than she should have. “I’m sure you need to return to comfort your people Mr Benning. I’ll see if Murray needs me and if not I’ll have Trae show me to my room. Good night.” And she was gone, making her way back to the kitchen.

Wade didn’t want to push, so went looking for Trae and Mitch, finding them in the midst of several of the Pack’s young women. “Trae!” he waited for the man to approach him. “You told the Doctor you’d organise a room for her. See that you do and that she’s tucked in nice and safe for the night.” He didn’t wait for an answer, moving off towards a group of men at the far end of the Compound.

Trae went in search of Tempest, wondering what had got under Wade’s skin. It took him a moment and he laughed, not what… more like who’s gotten under his skin! He laughed again, realising that the next week or so would be interesting, if not entertaining.

He found Tempest standing toe-to-toe with Lukas, one of their Enforcers. Neither appeared calm and Lukas seemed to be growling at her. Trae had a fair idea what was happening and wanted to nip it in the bud as quickly as possible.

 Lukas had always been a ladies’ man and he’d never had difficulty finding a woman to spend time with, unfortunately he didn’t like being told no. The man had no idea Tempest was under Wade’s protection, or he’d have never hit on her. As to his growling at her… Wade would not be pleased that his guest was being mistreated in such a way.

As he approached he was stopped in his tracks. Not only did Tempest growl back, she was glaring at Lukas, fisted hands on her hips and all. “Do you really expect women to be brainless idiots, willing to fawn all over you? I mean that must get tiresome for them after a while. I’d much prefer a man willing to match me on an academic level.”

Lukas laughed, “You sound like a school teacher. I bet I could teach you a few things teach.” He replied in a come to bed with me voice.

Trae made to move forward but she turned her glare on him, before returning it to the idiot man in front of her. Tempest softened her voice, smoothed out her skirt with her hands; she even produced a subtle smile. “I am a teacher of sorts Lukas. Why don’t you have Trae, Mitch or perhaps Mr Benning explain what it is I do. Then, if you’re still willing… you can join me in my place of work, where I will gladly demonstrate to you exactly what I know of the male body.”

Holy crap! “Doc! Wade asked me to show you to your room. That is if you’re ready?” Trae offered her his arm and glared at Lukas.

Tempest rolled her eyes, she’d spent a good many years fending off jerks like Lukas, she didn’t need rescuing. Trae’s anger was another matter though, so she turned her back on the idiot and took Trae’s offered arm. “We’ll need to go to my car for my bag?”

“No problem Doc,” he held out his hand and she pulled her keys out of her pocket to give to him.

As they walked away, Tempest heard Lukas talking to Murray. “She’s a doctor?”

“Yeah you fool! Doctor Kincaid did the autopsy on Henry. She came tonight to help out and pay her respects.”

Lukas followed her with his eyes, as Trae led her away. Mitch appeared at that moment, none too happy with him. “The Doc has been helping us discover what happened to Henry. You might also consider the fact that she’s under your Alpha’s protection.” He saw the colour drain from Lukas’ face. “Trae and I are shadowing her, so if you have any sense, you’ll stop hitting on her and show her the respect she’s already earned!” he barged past him making sure he knocked him with his shoulder as he moved past him.

Murray nodded, “What he said!” and walked away, leaving a rather embarrassed Lukas to watch as Trae escorted the Doctor away.

                                            ~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tempest got organised for the night and settled herself in bed, but was unable to sleep. She could hear people outside, knew they’d be there a while yet. The suite she’d been given was light and roomy, with a door off sitting room leading to a small balcony. This is where Tempest eventually found herself, watching over the area where people were still gathered.

As she stood watching, people began to slowly making their way home. She spotted Mitch and Trae, with a group of men. She realised they were standing either side of Wade, almost protectively. They were his best men, one his Second the other almost at the same level. Tempest frowned, she was very good at reading people, but hadn’t realising just how powerful these two men were. She sighed, “Enforcers. I should have known.”

Tempest turned her gaze to the star lit sky. It was a clear night, the multitude of stars pulled on memories of her life she’d left up north. She only had one regret about leaving. She loved her mother and would have brought her with her if possible, but Tempest knew she’d never leave her mate. No matter the pain he too often caused her. She closed her eyes and breathed deeply of the cool night air.

It was at this moment that Wade saw her, his eyes taking in everything about her, lingering the smooth lines of her moonlit face. Her hair blue black in the limited light, hung loose drifting on the slight breeze like the threads of finest silk.

His breath caught and for a moment all was well with the world, he was calm in a way he had never been before. Tempest moved inside, leaving the door open, her doing so severed the emotion that had caught him up and he could breathe again.

He turned to his men, was handed an urn containing the remains of his Pack-mate. In taking it knew it was time for him to complete Henry Jensen’s journey. Holding the urn with care, he threw back his head and howled. The men that had remained with Wade were all Enforcers, they would keep watch over the Compound until he returned. Wade looked off into the distance then ran from the Compound into the surrounding bushland and wouldn’t stop until he reached the cliffs edge where he’d pay his final respects to Henry.

Tempest’s entire body shuddered at the sound of Wade’s howl and she knew in her gut it was him. It was such a god awfully mournful sound, one that Tempest would remember for the rest of her life. She made her way back to bed realising there would be no sleep for her this night, no sleep for many of Wade’s people.

She did her best to get some sleep, but gave up around three o’clock. After a quick shower Tempest made her way down to the kitchen area, if she couldn’t sleep, she’d need coffee as would the men waiting for Wade’s return.

Murray was surprised to see her, but welcomed the company. “I just made a fresh pot of coffee and rumour has it you like hazelnut syrup?”

“Only in my morning coffee. Too much syrup would not be good for my figure, now would it?” she grinned and followed him into the kitchen. “I’m available if you need a hand,” she nodded towards the door. “They’re going to hungry and I’m sure Mr Benning would appreciate a hot meal on his return.”

“You’re a smart woman Doc also observant. How about we have a coffee before making a start of the food?” he looked around, “The past few days have taken its toll on all of us. I told my kitchen help to go home and rest. I don’t expect them to turn up for a few hours yet.”

“I work with death, am surrounded by it at times on a daily basis. I know you are all mourning the loss of Mr Jensen,” she sighed and reached for the mug of coffee Murray was handing her. This is a close knit Pack, I’ve felt your sadness, your loss, but I’ve also sensed the warmth you have for each other. I’ve not had these things in some time, Murray. It’s nice to feel part of what you have, if only from an outsider’s perspective. Just let me know what needs doing and I’ll follow your lead.”

Murray felt a little out of his depth with Tempest. The Doc and he’d been calling her was educated, cultured. She was a strong woman, one any man would be proud to call his own and she understood what he and the rest of the Pack were going through. That they weren’t exactly human didn’t seem to faze the Doc, she fitted in, in a way he couldn’t quite understand. He pushed his thoughts aside for now not wanting her to pick up on his confusion.

When they finished their coffee they set to work. Many of the Pack would have remained close and likely coming in for breakfast, so they had their work cut out for them organising food enough for the regular patrons as well as any others that would come by.

By the time Wade and his Enforcers came in they had trays of food ready. Murray’s kitchen staff arrived and set to organising plated for each of the Enforcers. Murray ushered Tempest out of the kitchen thanking her for her help, “I really appreciate your help Doc, but you need to take a breather, I’ll bring you a plate and another coffee,” the grinned, “this time without the syrup.”

Tempest glanced at the stream of people steadily coming in and spotted a table in the far corner. Wade and his men would need time to deal with the last few days and didn’t want to intrude. Unfortunately she was waylaid by Lukas.

He touched a hand to her arm to get her attention. “Doctor Kincaid. I wanted to apologise for my behaviour towards you last night. I had no idea who you were, or what you’ve done for us.” He sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Mitch informed me that you are under our Alpha’s protection. If there is anything I can do to ensure your comfort while you are here, please let me know.”

Tempest was surprised, pleasantly so, “Thank you Lukas, I was about to find a table and have some breakfast. Would you like to join me?”

Lukas looked over Tempest’s shoulder and laughed, “I do believe you have another offer. He escorted her to the large table where Wade and his Enforcers were sitting. As she approached they all came to their feet, bowing their heads slightly. She could feel her cheeks blushing, unsure what to do or say, so turned to Wade.

“Doctor Kincaid, you already know Trae, Mitch and I hear you also met Lukas last night.” He glared at the man before returning his focus to Tempest. “I’d also like you to meet Adam, Sean, Matt, Bastion, Gabe and Zac. These men are my Enforcers, protectors of the Pack, although I’m fairly certain you already know what an Enforcer is.”

Tempest looked at each man in turn, couldn’t seem to find her voice, so acknowledged Wade’s words with a nod, still unsure what was happening. “We know what you’ve done for the Pack Dr T. word gets around fairly quickly in a Pack. Not too much privacy.” He grinned, “What I’m trying to say is, we’re grateful for the time you gave. Not just in what you did for Henry, but the time you gave to those that needed comfort last night. I’ve discussed it with my men and you’ve been given ‘Friend of the Pack’ status.”

Tempest was gobsmacked! Her eyes blurred and she realised it was because her eyes had become all teary up. Someone handed her a handkerchief and she soon found herself seated opposite Wade with Mitch and Trae sitting either side of her.

“I… I don’t know what to say?”

“There’s no need Doc,” interrupted Murray. He placed a plate of food and a mug of coffee in front of her then gave her a pat on the shoulder. That’s Wade’s official way of saying you might not be Pack, but you’re welcome here and if you are ever need help, all you have to do is ask and we’ll be there for you.”

Trae laughed, “Murray you have a way of simplifying even the most important of issues.”

“Hey,” he replied, “I’m a simple kind of guy.”

Tempest burst out laughing, “I know what an honour this is, thankyou. I just hope I will never be a position where I’d need your help.”

Murray nodded in agreement, “Eat Doc, before it gets cold.” And she did.

Wade took Tempest on a tour of the Compound after breakfast, he was exhausted, but didn’t want to leave her yet. All too soon she’d want to head back to the city and her job. “What time do you need to be back?”

“I called my supervisor to let him know I won’t be in today. I’ve got a fair bit of time up my sleeve and to honest by the time I get back to the city I’ll more than likely want to lay up and get an early night.” She looked at him closely, “You must be exhausted. Perhaps you should get so sleep, I’ll see about Trae or Mitch following me back.”

“Your right, I do need rest. Have dinner with me Friday night? I’m not very good company at the moment and… I’d like to get to know you.”

“At The Den?” he nodded, “Dinner sounds good and Stephan did tell me to come again.”

“I’ll be busy the next couple of days. Mitch or Trae will stay with you, make sure you’re safe. I’ll pick you up at seven thirty.”

Tempest smiled as she looked around her, “I like your Compound, it’s not small like I first thought, it’s… compact. You have some good people, Murray is a real sweetheart.” She looked at him hopefully.

Wade laughed, “Don’t worry Doc, Murray I’m not going to yell at the man. He has a way of saying what’s needed and in as plain a way as possible.”

Half an hour later Wade handed Tempest over to her two shadows and made his way home to a shower and sleep. It had been a long day and night. Now he needed to regain his strength, or he wouldn’t be any use in finding Henry’s killer.

Tempest too was feeling the effects of lack of sleep. She spent some time doing the laundry and other domestic type duties, wanting to stay awake as long as possible. The last thing she needed was more broken sleep and waking in the middle of night was not good. It gave her too much time to think, to remember and she couldn’t afford to deal with the sadness and the anger those memories would bring.

So she cleaned, she read and wrote a letter to her mother that she knew in her heart she’d never post. When she finally gave in and went to bed, she feel into a deep restful sleep. Tempest should have woken next morning well rested and ready for the day, what she woke to was a sense of foreboding that almost made her skin crawl.

Tempest took her time getting ready for the day, seemed relieved to see Trae when she went down to her car. “Hey Doc, want me to drive?”

She handed him the keys without a word. They were well on their way when she suddenly realised, “Where’s your car? You weren’t out there all night without it were you?”

“Lukas called by earlier, they needed the car, but Mitch will have one when he takes my place this evening.”

She nodded and got into the car. It was then Trae realised something was wrong, “What is it Doc? There’s something off about you and I mean that in the nicest possible way.” He was hoping to make her smile, what he got was something he didn’t expect.

“I have a bad feeling Trae, like something is going to happen. There’s a knot in the pit of my stomach and the closer we get to my office the tighter it gets.”

Trae didn’t like what she’d said, knew there were people who had a sixth sense about some things. The fear in Tempest’s eyes pulled at him. “So you’re likely to have a bad day and if that’s the case you’re going to need sustenance.”

“I’m not hungry, I don’t think I could even stomach coffee.”

“Okay Doc, but if your right, I’ll be staying closer to you today just in case.”

Tempest didn’t fight him on it, simply sighed and relaxed into her seat. Closing her eyes, she did her best to remain calm, sensing that today, she’d need all the calm she could muster. Trae parked the car in back of the building and walked her to the entrance. Tempest stopped when she saw Daryl, his face as white as a sheet.

She grabbed Trae’s arm for support, “We’ve got another woman, haven’t we?”

“I’m sorry honey, she brought in an hour ago, looks just like the others.”

Trae pulled Tempest to his side and looked directly into Darryl’s eyes, “My name is Trae O’Neil, I’ve been appointed as Doctor Kincaid’s body guard. I’ll take her down to her office. I’ll be staying by her side until this case has been solved.” He didn’t wait for a reply, didn’t wait for permission, he moved through the front door keeping Tempest as close to his side as possible.

“What the hell!” Tempest was pissed at what Trae had said.